Senior Solicitor - Public Law

Senior Solicitor - Public Law | Wellington

• We have one fixed term Senior Solicitor available until February 2026, covering parental leave.

This team is responsible for providing legal advice across the Ministry's policy and operational portfolios, ensuring the Ministry complies with its statutory obligations, at a minimum, and litigation management where the Minister or the Ministry is the subject of legal proceedings. The purpose of this role is to work in partnership with the organisation to provide expert in-house legal advice for Ministers, and the Ministry on a wide range of issues. In particular, you will advise on public and environmental law issues as they affect the Ministry's operations with a focus on policy and legislative development. Advising on climate change and reform of the resource management system will be a key focus, as well as supporting the internal management of litigation and commercial advice where required. Advice is required to be delivered in a range of formats and varied timeframes to suit the needs of internal clients and Ministers. Senior Solicitors will advise on good decision-making and litigation risk. You will also be expected to coach and mentor other solicitors in the legal team and contribute to the Legal & Risks development and training initiatives. Senior solicitors are expected to participate and contribute to wider Ministry fora on quality of advice and training related to legal issues, public sector duties, roles, and functions. You are also expected to work across public sector agencies to develop a Crown-wide approach. Our ideal candidate will bring:

• Minimum 8 years PQE, preferably in a government context.
• Significant experience providing legal advice, interpretation, and support for the development of legislation, ideally with respect to legislation within the remit of MfE.
• A law degree and a current NZLS practising certificate (or current eligibility to obtain one).

Salary range for this role is $118,318 to $143,695 pa. Appointment within this range will be based on skills and experience. Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and cover letter. Note: your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role. If you require further information about this position, please contact Nadine Eales, Talent Advisor or Catherine Prior, Legal Manager. #J-18808-Ljbffr